Western Australia
As Australia's largest state, occupying the entire western coastline, it's not surprising that Western Australia offers students the best of both worlds: a great lifestyle and a range of study options.
Living in Western Australia
Western Australia may be far away from the eastern capitals, but it certainly has a great deal to offer students in the way of quality higher education, great lifestyle opportunities and stunning coastline.
Metropolitan Perth, the capital of WA, is only a very small part of what this state has to offer. Go south and you will find the glorious coastal expanse of Esperance, and on the way maybe enjoy a glass or two of the Margaret River region's best wine.
Broome is located at the north of WA's tourist trail, and heading east from there you will find yourself in the breathtaking Kimberley region. Western Australia is also home to some unique attractions, including the rich gold mines of Kalgoorlie, the cute and furry marsupial quokkas of Rottnest Island and natural wonders such as the Pinnacles and Wave Rock.
On top of that, there is a diverse range of places to visit in and around Perth. The city itself is nestled beside the winding Swan River and offers a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, fine dining, great shopping and historic buildings. The nearby port city of Fremantle offers markets, numerous restaurants and historic delights by the water. And, with more than 80 kilometres of Australia's best beaches, there's plenty of opportunity for fun in the sun and surf.
Free buses operate around the CBD and take interested visitors to attractions like the Perth Mint, the Swan Bells Tower and the Art Gallery of Western Australia.
Housing
The median weekly rental price for a house in Western Australia is $400, and the median weekly rental price for a unit is $350.
The median weekly rental price for a house in Perth is $460, and the median weekly rental price for a unit is $400.
The student rental market is very competitive. Visit your institution's housing service for referrals or advice.
Note: Figures presented here are intended as a guide only. Prices vary within and between suburbs and towns. Source: Realestate.com.au, May 2017.
Transport
Perth and Fremantle are served by trains, buses and ferries. If you are a full-time student, you can buy a Tertiary SmartRider card, which allows you to top up your balance as you go. See the Transperth website for more information. For students who live further away from their campus and those outside the metropolitan regions, driving is a popular option.
Climate
Western Australia has a very hot climate, with temperatures climbing into the high 30s and low 40s for most of the summer and rarely getting below 20°C during the day in winter.
Learn more about:
Universities and TAFEs in Perth
